10 WWE Exits Which Seriously Affected Other Wrestlers

10. Edge's Retirement Forces Christian Into The Spotlight

Despite Christian more than proving he had the chops to hold a top belt in a wrestling promotion during his time as a member of the TNA roster, Vince McMahon just didn't seem to be on board with the idea of 'Captain Charisma' being a World Champion inside of WWE - ECW Championship reigns aside.

That was until Christian's long-time best friend/brother/tag partner Edge was forced to suddenly retire in 2011 and relinquish his World Heavyweight Championship in the process.

This led to Christian being entered into a battle royal to decide who would face Alberto Del Rio - who'd become number one contender to Edge after beating Christian on SmackDown - for the vacated strap at Extreme Rules.

With Edge's emotional retirement still fresh in fans' minds at that point, WWE decided now would be the perfect time to capitalise on this real-life situation and give the people a feel-good moment at the upcoming PPV. Christian eventually won the big gold belt in a Ladder match (because of course it was) at the event and his bestest bud Edge celebrated alongside the new champ in front of a delighted crowd.

Sure, his first reign didn't last long, but it felt like Christian was finally being given the respect he deserved as one of the most reliable talents in the company and it arguably wouldn't have happened had his pal not hung up his boots.